The site of “the shot heard ’round the world,” the North Bridge is where the Battle of Concord took place on April 19, 1775. It was one of the first acts of the American Revolution.

The current bridge — which passes over the Concord River — is a 2005 restoration of the bridge that was built in 1956, and the fifth one to be constructed. The original bridge from 1775 was dismantled and rebuilt in 1788.

The bridge is a big tourist attraction, and also has a cool monument nearby that we’ll tell you about in coming days. The North Bridge visitor center is about 500 yards away (and open during non-pandemic times). Inside, you’ll find exhibits about the battle, and can watch a short film about events of the Revolutionary War. There’s also a super cute gift shop with all kinds of historic New England items.

If you can visit on a weekday, it’s often calm and tranquil. It’s a bit of a mob scene on weekends, as the Old Manse and Robbins House are just a hop, skip and a jump away.

The North Bridge is part of Minute Man National Historical Park, which has an amazing walking trail along the old Battle Road.